The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) is excited to announce the fourth annual Washington Tracking Network (WTN) Youth Science Contest. This opportunity is open to high school students across the state. It’s a chance to dive into health and environmental data from your own community while enhancing your science and communication skills.
Jennifer Sabel, WTN Manager, shared, “The contest has grown tremendously. It not only teaches students to analyze data but also empowers them to make meaningful changes in their communities.”
Ways to Participate
Students can choose one of three project paths:
- Health Science: Use WTN data to investigate health patterns or inequalities.
- Science Communication: Leverage WTN data to spotlight an important issue and create a compelling message that encourages action.
- Program and Policy Design: Propose a public policy idea or team up with a local organization to enhance community programs using WTN resources.
Your project should incorporate WTN data, focus on equity, include clear visuals, and reflect on your learning journey. You’ll have from February 15 to April 15 to finish your project.
How to Submit Your Work
Registration and project submissions are due by midnight on April 15. You can find more details and helpful resources on the WTN contest page.
Judging and Recognition
A panel of public health experts from DOH will review the projects. Winners will be announced in late May and will receive a plaque. Their work will also be showcased on DOH’s social media channels and the WTN website. First-place winners will enjoy a mentoring session with an expert to help refine their projects and gain valuable career insights.
